This chapter again reads like a series of proverbs, containing much wisdom and practical guidance. “Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. To draw near to listen is better than to offer the sacrifice of fools, for they do not know that they are doing evil. Be not rash with your…
Month: April 2021
Ecclesiastes 4
This chapter contains a series of proverb-like observations. “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Again, if two lie together,…
Ecclesiastes 3
This chapter has two main themes: there is a time for everything, and finding joy in one’s labor for God is the most fulfilling pursuit (similar to ch2). “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to…
Ecclesiastes 2
In this chapter Solomon reflects on the purpose of working / laboring in this world – is it meaningless, or not? “There is nothing better for a person than that he should eat and drink and find enjoyment in his toil. This also, I saw, is from the hand of God, for apart from him…
Ecclesiastes 1
This book, written by Solomon, is somewhat of a lament. After many years of great wisdom he sees the fruitlessness and futility of many pursuits, and writes his reflections down in this book. ” ‘Meaningless! Meaningless!’ says the Teacher. ‘Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless.’ What do people gain from all their labors at which they…
A Rejoicing Prayer of Celebration
Today I offer a joyful prayer of celebration and rejoicing. What is there to celebrate, you might ask? We serve a loving and compassionate God who has saved us from sin, and withholds His wrath so many more will have opportunity to join us in eternity. The Lord has blessed us so greatly through His…
Titus 3:12-15
These final verses of the book summarize Paul’s letter to Titus. “When I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, do your best to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there. Do your best to speed Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way; see that they lack nothing….
Titus 3:8-11
These verses provide some conflict resolution (or avoidance) suggestions to be used within the church body. “The saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people. But…
Titus 3:4-7
In classic Pauline style, these next few verses are packed with humbling truth – we have done nothing to earn or deserve God’s mercy and forgiveness. “But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own…
Titus 3:1-3
These next few verses are impactful, humbling, and provide further context of Christ-honoring behavior. “Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people. For we…